Veterans & Prostate Cancer The Facts Prostate cancer starts in the prostate. The prostate is a small gland in the male reproductive system. Anyone born with a prostate can get prostate cancer.
The Numbers:
Prostate cancer is the most common cancer among U.S. veterans.
Prostate cancer makes up 3 out of 10 new cancers diagnosed in Veterans Affairs (VA) each year.
3 out of 10 veterans diagnosed with prostate cancer at the VA are Black.
Every year, the VA diagnoses and treats about 15,000 veterans for prostate cancer.
THE GOOD NEWS: Finding cancer early saves lives! When found early, more than 99 out of 100 people with prostate cancer will be alive in five years.
Veterans Face Higher Risk:
Veterans are often at higher risk of prostate cancer because of things they were near while serving in the military. These include:
Agent Orange: A chemical used in the past that is linked to cancer
Burn Pits: Smoke and trash from pits used at military bases
Other Exposures: Include fuel, pesticides, cleaners, and hazards from flying military aircraft
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Other Risks:
Older men: Most cases happen in men 65 and older
Black men: Get prostate cancer more often than other men
Family history: Cancer in your family may raise your risk
Gene changes: Some people are born with genes that raise their risk
Talk About Screening:
• Early prostate cancer usually has no signs. This is why screening is so important. • Black men and men with cancer in their family: Talk to your provider about testing starting at age 40. • All other men: Talk to your provider about testing starting at age 45. • They will use a simple blood test called a PSA test. Tip: When you see your provider, tell them if you were exposed to burn pits, chemicals, or other hazards from your service. This helps them understand your background and risk level.
Take the Next Step:
1. Check your VA benefits. Prostate cancer screening is covered under VA plans. Learn what you’re eligible for at va.gov/health-care/about-va-health-benefits 2. Talk to a provider. Find a VA location near you at va.gov/find-locations, or talk to your regular health care provider about screening
Learn more here: zerocancer.org/veterans
zerocancer.org | 24/7 support in the palm of your hand. Text ZACH at 1-844-660-9376.
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